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Eli Mack, Sal Marcoccio, Chris Eakin, Nick Caron


Inside The Matchup: Wk 7
10/22/10

PIT @ MIA | NYG @ DAL | WAS @ CHI | BUF @ BAL

MIN @ GB | JAX @ KC | ARI @ SEA | OAK @ DEN

NE @ SD | CLE @ NO | SF @ CAR | STL @ TB

PHI @ TEN | CIN @ ATL
 Predictions - YTD
Rk Staffer W L %
1 Marcoccio 15 9 62.5
2 Caron 6 4 60.0
3 Autry 12 9 57.1
4 Eakin 11 10 52.4
- Kilroy 10 4 71.4

Steelers @ Dolphins - (Marcoccio)

Passing Game Thoughts: While Big Ben may have shown a little rustiness in his first week back, there’s no denying that he makes Pittsburgh a better team. He tossed three TD passes in his return from suspension and Pittsburgh is now the most balanced team in the NFL. They no longer need to grind out wins behind the likes of Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch, and can now get in a shoot-out with anyone, although their menacing defense makes it unlikely that will frequently be necessary. Ben has uncanny mobility for a QB of his size and one of the stronger arms in the NFL – he also has one of the better possession type WRs and a great young deep threat. It’s scary to think how good this team can be this season.

Miami was very poor against the pass in 2009 (24th ranked, allowing 234.6 ppg and 23 TDs through the air), but looks far better during the 2010 season as they are currently the 6th ranked pass defense allowing 201.8 ypg and 6 TDs thus far. They have struggled to shut down opposing TEs however and are one of the better matchups from a fantasy perspective – allowing over 8 points per game to TEs – so it could be a decent week to get Heath Miller back into your line-up.

Running Game Thoughts: Rashard Mendenhall has produced big time in Roethlisberger’s absence. While they may not call upon him as often now that they can effectively pass the ball, the threat of a passing game can only help open up things for the running game, especially one that does not possess a big time o-line. Mendenhall runs with impressive nimbleness and speed for a back his size, although not with the power that one would expect that comes with his frame. He doesn’t have great lateral movement, but masks that by spinning away from defenders before turning upfield. Ike Redman has been a fairly effective runner when the Steelers need to give Mendy a breather, and he could have an expanded role this week as Mendenhall deals with a shoulder contusion. While the injury is not a major concern a sore shoulder can be tough for a RB to deal with, so if the Steelers do manage to get a big lead on the ‘Phins we may see a lot of Redzone Rednman in the second half.

After a rough start to the season, Miami’s run defense has stepped it up and has moved into the top 10 of run defenses in the league. They are allowing 105.4 ypg and 4 TDs in the five games they have played so far.

Projections:
Ben Roethlisberger: 245 yds passing, 2 TDs, 1 Int.
Hines Ward: 65 yds receiving, 1 TD
Mike Wallace: 60 yds receiving
Heath Miller: 85 yds receiving, 1 TD
Rashard Mendenhall: 65 yds rushing, 1 TD / 35 yds receiving
Isaac Redman: 50 yds rushing / 5 yds receiving

Passing Game Thoughts: Chad Henne has put together some nice stat-lines for fantasy purposes but his high interception rate is likely a sore spot with his coaches. Brandon Marshall has certainly helped Henne put up some nice numbers but it’s slot WR Davone Bess that has been a real difference maker. Bess is a fine route runner with outstanding hands and concentration but has also shown some surprising big play ability. His emergence has been a big surprise and Miami having a nice second option to Marshall can only help with Henne’s development.

If you have to pick your poison, I guess it’s easier to throw on the Steelers than run on them – which is all but impossible. Even with their ability to make teams one dimensional, their pass defense still ranks 12th in the NFL, allowing 233 ypg and only 3 passing TDs on the season. Teams need to know where James Harrison line’s up (unless of course he carries through with his threat to retire due to the crack down on big hits :rollseyes:) as he is a devastating pass rusher who can also drop back into coverage.

Running Game Thoughts: Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams don’t seem to be running as effectively as they had been the last two seasons. Perhaps last seasons lis franc injury is still slowing Brown down a little and maybe age has finally caught up to Ricky, but there’s something that is obviously not right with the pair. Both are still solid rugged runners, but the burst and speed have been an issue which has all but eliminated any big plays in the run game.

You just can’t run on the Steelers. They are allowing a mere 63.8 ypg and 2 TDs so far. It’s amazing what a difference Troy Polamalu makes.

Projections:
Chad Henne: 225 yds passing, 2 TDs, 2 Ints.
Brandon Marshall: 95 yds receiving, 1 TD
Brian Hartline: 20 yds receiving
Davone Bess: 60 yds receiving
Anthony Fasano: 10 yds receiving, 1 TD
Ronnie Brown: 45 yds rushing / 10 yds rec.
Ricky Williams: 20 yds rushing / 10 yds receiving

Prediction: Steelers 27 Dolphins 17 ^ Top

Giants @ Cowboys - (Marcoccio)

Passing Game Thoughts: Eli Manning continues to be under-rated in the fantasy football community despite his consistent, and at times outstanding, production. He is surrounded by three young and talented WRs that each offer a different skill-set - Hakeem Nicks is the go to stud, Steve Smith is the precise route running security blanket and Mario Mannigham is the deep threat. Manning’s accuracy is at times an issue, but he has shown vast improvement in that area and is capable of taking over a game when necessary.

The Cowboys must rely on their above average pass rush in order to rattle Manning and hope that he’ll in turn throw one of those high passes that get tipped up for an interception as he’s been want to do thus far this season. If they can not manage to get to the QB, expect some big plays against the ‘Boys secondary, despite their statistical ranking as the top pass defense in the league (180.6 ypg and 7 TDs allowed on the season).

Running Game Thoughts: Ahmad Bradshaw has worked his way into the mix of top 10 fantasy RBs with his performance so far this season. Despite getting vultured for two TDs by Brandon Jacobs last week, his 143 yards of total offense surely helped his owners. His use of his deceptive strength and stunning moves to always gain positive yardage has earned him the lion’s share of carries in the Giants backfield, but unfortunately it seems Brandon Jacobs could be the back the Giants use once the reach the redzone.

Cowboys are the third ranked run defense, as they have allowed only 108.3 rushing yards per game and 3 rushing TDs on the season. Top pass defense and 3rd ranked run defense, how exactly is this team 1-4?

Projections:
Eli Manning: 255 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 Int.
Steve Smith: 50 yds receiving
Mario Manningham: 50 yds receiving
Hakeem Nicks: 105 yds receiving, 1 TD
Kevin Boss: 35 yds receiving
Brandon Jacobs: 35 yds rushing, 1 TD / 5 yds receiving
Ahmad Bradshaw: 95 yds rushing / 20 yds receiving

Passing Game Thoughts: Don’t look now but WR Roy Williams has scored 5 TDs in his last 3 games. It’s still Mile Austin and TE Jason Witten that are the players that fantasy owners can truly rely on as they offer the talent and targets necessary for consistent production – but Williams has now earned his way into starting line-ups across the country with his recent hot streak. Dez Bryant has been a disappointment, but fans must realize that he is a rookie subject to growing pains, and his health has been at issue all season. The talent is obviously there and he could therefore break out on any given week.

The Giants’ pass defense has made top tier fantasy QBs like Jay Cutler and Matt Shaub look pedestrian in recent weeks and Tony Romo is now on their radar. Osi Umenyiora and Justin Tuck are playing lights out and striking fear into opposing QBs, allowing the Giants secondary to look better than it probably is. The Giants are allowing only 172.2 ypg and 7 TDs through the air in 2010, so while at first glance this may look like a shoot out, their will be two really good defenses lined up on Monday Night.

Running Game Thoughts: Felix Jones has finally become “the man” in the Cowboys backfield and he has been getting the job done. Felix has bulked up, looking stronger, but may have sacrificed some of his big play ability as he appears a little slower on the field. He’s still a dangerous weapon however. Marion Barber, still starts the game but has seen his role diminished mostly to third downs and short yardage. He has been very successful in the short yardage role, so perhaps the Cowboys are onto something here. If only OC Jason Garrett didn’t fall in love with the passing game once the whistle blows, the Cowboy running game could just be fantasy gold.

The Giants held the NFL’s leading rusher, Arian Foster, to 25 yards rushing and rookie sensation Jahvid Best to 16 yards rushing in consecutive weeks. On the season they have allowed 92.8 ypg and 4 TDs on the ground. The Cowboys just may have a reason to abandon the run this week.

Projections:
Tony Romo: 285 yds passing 2 TDs, 2 Ints. / 15 yds rushing
Roy Williams: 75 yds receiving
Miles Austin: 90 yds receiving, 1 TD
Dez Bryant: 25 yds receiving
Jason Witten: 70 yds receiving, 1 TD
Felix Jones: 50 yds rushing, 1 TD / 40 yds receiving
Marion Barber: 35 yds rushing / 5 yds receiving

Prediction: Cowboys 24 Giants 21 ^ Top

Redskins @ Bears - (Autry)

Passing Game Thoughts: The good news regarding Donovan McNabb from a fantasy perspective is he’s thrown one TD in each of the last five games. The bad news is he’s also thrown at least one interception in his last four. McNabb has the sixth-most passing yards in the league, but his five passing TDs put him at the bottom of the list next to guys named Bruce Gradkowski and Seneca Wallace. While McNabb is now only a bye week replacement, perhaps it could be the lack of receiver depth on the roster. Essentially, the Redskins’ passing attack is centered around WR Santana Moss and TE Chris Cooley. These two account for well over 50 percent of the team’s total receptions. For McNabb to take his game to the next level, he’s going to need someone else besides Moss and Cooley to step up. By the way, Cooley is battling through a concussion, but it looks like he will play.

Here’s a strange statistical anomaly: the Bears rank 19th in the league against the pass but no team has given up fewer passing TDs than the Bears’ three. And while DE Julius Peppers has only two sacks, he remains someone Washington’s O-line must be aware of at all times. Washington won’t put up a ton of points in this game, but as long as your expectations of the Redskins’ passing attack are within reason, we should see the kind of performance that we’ve seen so far in 2010: good but not great fantasy production across the board.

Running Game Thoughts: A running back situation that at the beginning of the season looked as murky as any in the league with Clinton Portis, Larry Johnson and Willie Parker vying for playing time has morphed into one of only a handful of non-RBBCs. Ryan Torain has taken over the running duties after Portis was injured several weeks ago and responded with a 100 yard, 2 TD performance against the Colts. It should be noted, too, that Torain is a Mike Shanahan guy from their days in Denver, and perhaps the coach may stick with Torain for the balance of the season even when Portis comes back in about a month. Chicago’s run defense has as weird a statistical anomaly as its pass defense: they’re the third-ranked run defense but only five teams have given up more rushing TDs. That being said, expect Washington to rely heavily on Torain, who should score at least one TD.

Projections:
Donovan McNabb – 220 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Ryan Torain – 75 yards / 1 TD
Santana Moss – 85 yards
Joey Galloway – 35 yards
Chris Cooley – 60 yards / 1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: It’s been well documented so far this season that Chicago’s offensive line has struggled mightily. From blitzes off the edge to D-linemen simply dominating the Bears’ O-line, it’s been an ugly scenario with Chicago. Certainly Jay Cutler’s value has plummeted since his week 2 dismantling of the Cowboys because of the sieve that is Chicago’s offensive line. Consequently, he’s now a risky start each week—not necessarily because of a lack of production, but rather because he seems to have a greater chance of being knocked out the game. The high-risk passing scheme orchestrated by offensive coordinator Mike Martz, coupled with the struggles of the offensive line make for a nasty scenario under which Cutler must produce.

And much like McNabb, a lack of offensive weaponry could also play a part in Cutler’s recent tailspin. Since his 649 yard, five TD, one INT start through the first two games of the season, Cutler’s production has fallen off the table to the tune of 553 yards, one TD and two INTs in his last three. Doesn’t make for a high degree of confidence from a fantasy owner’s perspective, does it? But here’s a silver lining: Washington has the league’s 31st-ranked pass defense, so if Cutler and the Bears’ passing attack is to do something soon, there’s no better time to do it than at home against a susceptible defense.

Running Game Thoughts: Many looked at Matt Forte’s 2009 season and turned their nose up at his prospects for 2010. After being a top-5 pick last year, his value nosedived and he became a top RB2 in most leagues this season because of it. He’s not quite averaging 4 yards per carry, and Chester Taylor splits the carries 2-to-1, but Forte does lead the team in receptions and receiving TDs. No other RB in the league can say that. Washington’s run defense is in the bottom-third of the league and has surrendered at least 100 yards on the ground every game this year except the Houston contest in week 2. Expect Forte to be the featured offensive weapon in this game. Short dump-off passes should supplement his production as the primary ball carrier. Taylor gets his share of playing time, but not too much where it affects Forte’s production. Start Forte with confidence.

Projections:
Jay Cutler – 215 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Matt Forte – 60 yards rushing / 35 yards rec
Johnny Knox – 65 yards
Devin Hester – 40 yards
Earl Bennett – 20 yards
Greg Olsen – 35 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Washington 17, Chicago 13 ^ Top

Bills @ Ravens - (Autry)

Passing Game Thoughts: Ok, something’s gotta give in this game. Baltimore’s top-3 pass defense goes up against a getting-hot Ryan Fitzpatrick. Before you laugh, consider the fact that Fitzpatrick has been turnover-free the last two games while tossing five TDs with an average passer rating of over 100 during that stretch. Baltimore’s pass defense has been a surprise so far in 2010 considering the injuries and inexperience in the secondary, but they’re actually one of the strengths of the team. While Fitzpatrick has taken good care of the football, he will have his work cut out for him in the contest. The Ravens defense ranks in the bottom-half of the league in interceptions and sacks, but they’ve given up the fourth fewest points. And considering the fact that Buffalo is 26th in the league in scoring, I’d say advantage Ravens in that department.

WR Lee Evans, known by many as a deep threat, is averaging only 12 yards per reception this year, the lowest of his career. If Evans isn’t getting deep and stretching the defense, he’s not much help to fantasy owners or his Buffalo teammates. He’s a bottom-feeder WR3 at best right now, and certainly in this match-up. The player to keep an eye on is Steve Johnson. The third year WR has scored four TDs in his last three games and is starting to creep up the fantasy relevance meter. If he does well this week, his value will continue to increase and he will begin getting plucked off the waiver wire. All that being said, keep whatever conservative expectations you have for the Bills in check this week, as this may be a tough one for the visitors.

Running Game Thoughts: Maybe the only good thing that’s come from Buffalo’s running attack in 2010 is the trade of Marshawn Lynch. At least now there are only two RBs for fantasy owners to contend with regarding Buffalo. But the way Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller have performed so far, they’re lucky to have roster spots on fantasy teams at this point. Neither has been much of a threat, although their roles are becoming clearer: Jackson appears to be the early-down back, with Spiller filling the third down role.

I don’t think it matters much, though. While Baltimore’s run defense isn’t ranked as high as previous years, its 14th-best position should be enough to cause headaches in the Buffalo running game. Jackson and Spiller may be lucky to combine for more than 50 yards on the ground.

Projections:
Ryan Fitzpatrick – 175 yards / 1 TD / 2 INTs
Fred Jackson – 35 yards
C.J. Spiller – 20 yards rushing / 25 yards rec
Lee Evans – 55 yards
Steve Johnson – 40 yards / 1 TD
Roscoe Parrish – 25 yards
Jonathan Stupar – 15 yards

Passing Game Thoughts: The prevailing thought with Joe Flacco owners I’m sure had to be trying to figure out which was the real Joe Flacco: the one who in 2009 threw 12 TDs and five INTs in the first seven games, or the one who in the same year tossed nine TDs and seven INTs in the last nine games? Perhaps the truth is somewhere in the middle, which, I believe, is the first half-dozen or so games in 2010. If only he could maintain some level of consistency, he’d be the reliable top-10 QB many drafted him to be. But performances such as throwing three TDs against Cleveland in week three then following it up with three TDs in the next three games COMBINED makes for a maddening thought process when deciding to start him.

Flacco’s up and down play directly affects Anquan Boldin’s output, including his week 5, one-catch-for-eight-yards clunker. Boldin, however, continues to be the main cog in a passing game that’s still incorporating stalwart veterans Derrick Mason and Todd Heap. Buffalo has the 11th-ranked pass defense but have surrendered 11 passing TDs—only three teams have given up more. Boldin and Mason are solid plays this week; Heap is battling a slight neck injury courtesy of New England’s Brandon Meriweather, but it looks like he will play nonetheless.

Running Game Thoughts: Someone on the Ravens coaching staff must’ve heard the obscenities emanating from Ray Rice fantasy owners regarding the RB’s average production and limited opportunities during the first quarter of the season. Between rushing attempts and receptions, Rice has a combined 67 touches in the last two games, including an eight-catch performance last week against New England. There’s a good chance Rice will get a boatload of opportunities this week. Buffalo is last in the league against the run, has given up the most rushing TDs, and no other team has had more running plays called against it. Again, expect huge things from Rice this week. There should even be enough left over for TD-vulture Willis McGahee.

Projections:
Joe Flacco – 215 yards / 2 TDs
Ray Rice – 110 yards rushing / 45 yards rushing / 1 TD
Willis McGahee – 25 yards rushing / 1 TD
Anquan Boldin – 75 yards / 1 TD
Derrick Mason – 50 yards / 1 TD
Todd Heap – 20 yards

Prediction: Baltimore 31, Buffalo 13 ^ Top

Vikings @ Packers - (Autry)

Passing Game Thoughts: Last week against Dallas, Brett Favre threw for the fewest yards since week 1 in 2009 but was without an interception for the fist this season. Favre owners can take all the good news they can get from a player who appears to be a shell of his 2009 self. The addition of Randy Moss could be the remedy for that, but that continues to be a work in progress. The whole Favre-returns-to-Lambeau aside, this has the makings of a really good game. The Packers expect their secondary to be fortified with the return of DBs Al Harris and Atari Bigby, both of whom should make their season debut on Sunday night. Clay Matthews is also slated to return after missing last week with a hamstring injury.

This all means that Favre will have his work cut out for him. Expect to see several deep balls thrown in Moss’ direction against Charles Woodson. Moss could get loose for one. Percy Harvin is a solid slot receiver who supplements his quickness with eye-popping athleticism, the likes of which aren’t seen in typical slot receivers. I contend he will continue to be the biggest beneficiary of Moss’ arrival in Minnesota. Harvin could lead the team in receptions this week.

Running Game Thoughts: Adrian Peterson is Adrian Peterson. He continues to do his damage in the running game, but also plays a role in the passing game. His 15 receptions so far are five ahead of this time last year. That kind of additional production from Peterson beyond his rushing duties is like stealing. He should continue to see an uptick in his receiving numbers until Moss becomes more involved and more comfortable in the passing attack. Green Bay has only given up two rushing TDs, so Peterson could find the sledding a little rough the closer to the goal line he gets. But with the supplemental production he gets through the passing game, going without a score is not the true buzz kill it could be for other RBs.

Projections:
Brett Favre – 220 yards / 2 TDs / 1 INT
Adrian Peterson – 90 yards / 1 TD
Randy Moss – 85 yards / 1 TD
Percy Harvin – 60 yards
Visanthe Shiancoe – 55 yards / 1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: I cringe as an Aaron Rodgers owner every time he drops back to pass. He seemingly takes a hit with each pass attempt, and that’s certainly not the best recipe for longevity. But when he does get time, he continues to be the top-3 QB we all chose him to be. His 13 total TDs (10 passing, 3 rushing) lead the league, but he will continue to battle through losing his dynamic, seam-stretching TE Jermichael Finley. Andrew Quarless is decent, but he’s no Finley…obviously. Many have complained about Donald Driver and Greg Jennings this season—especially Jennings. But Jennings came through in a big way last week and had his best game of the season by far. Driver has yet to practice this week, but says with confidence that he will play.

Production probably won’t be as plentiful this week though. Minnesota has a top-10 pass defense and has surrendered only six passing TDs. The good news for Rodgers owners is the Vikings have only six QB sacks—only Tampa Bay has fewer sacks. Hopefully Rodgers can remain upright and continue the damage he’s inflicted on opponents in 2010.

Running Game Thoughts: I’ll admit, I was not the biggest Ryan Grant fan on the planet. But his injury is showing me how valuable he was to this team. Brandon Jackson seems to be average, and John Kuhn is what he is: a glorified fullback. This team will continue to rely on Rodgers and run perhaps only when necessary. Jackson is worth a roster spot for those who can stash him away, but whatever dividends his presence on your roster will pay probably won’t come for some time—if at all. His production is too spotty and inconsistent to warrant any serious consideration as a starter. And oh by the way, the Vikings still have a top-10 run defense. Keep Jackson and Kuhn on your bench.

Projections:
Aaron Rodgers – 240 yards / 2 passing TDs / 1 rushing TDs
Brandon Jackson – 40 yards
John Kuhn – 25 yards
Donald Driver – 85 yards / 1 TD
Greg Jennings – 65 yards / 1 TD
James Jones – 30 yards
Andrew Quarless – 45 yards

Prediction: Green Bay 24, Minnesota 21 ^ Top

Jaguars @ Chiefs - (Eakin)

Passing Game Thoughts: An inconsistent and often ugly pass attack gets potentially worse this week with starter David Garrard (concussion) and backup Trent Edwards (thumb) both questionable. The Jags signed Todd Bauman and Patrick Ramsey as emergency replacements in case neither can play Sunday. The Jags supposed number one WR Mike Sims-Walker has not lived up to preseason ranking and has actually been out produced by possession WR Mike Thomas. The lone bright spot in the receiving core has been TE Marcedes Lewis in large part to his five scores through six games. If Garrard and/or Edwards can’t go, then the Jags receiving core is in for a tough day and should be avoided. Even at full strength this is a tough match-up. The Chiefs two young CBs Brandon Carr and Brandon Flowers are having a great season. Flowers leads the league in yards per catch to opposing WRs, a key stat in evaluating CBs.

Running Game Thoughts: RB Maurice Jones-Drew has struggled at times this year, and just as he was getting back on track he gets shut down in a big Monday Night match versus the Titans. His struggles can be blamed on a multitude of things. The lack of a legitimate passing threat allows teams to overload the line. Most elite runners face this challenge and overcome it with big plays but Jones-Drew seems a bit slow compared to years past. In his last 150 carries going back to last year he is averaging less than 4 yards per carry. He is not showing the explosiveness he once had. It may be time to wonder if his heavy workload has worn him down. He may post solid results on sheer volume, but the Chiefs run defense has been stout this year allowing just 90 yards per game. Play Jones-Drew if you own him, as he is the only offense for the Jags this week, but don’t expect huge numbers the rest of the way.

Projections:
Todd Bouman: 155 yds/2 INT
Mike Sims-Walker: 45 yds
Mike Thomas: 60 yds
Marcedes Lewis: 50 yds
Maurice Jones-Drew: 80 yds/35 rec/1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: If there is a week to play under-performing QB Matt Cassel this is it. He’s coming off his best outing of the year and faces the Jags 28th ranked pass defense. The struggle of the Jags offense will mean more possessions and more yards for Cassel. WR Dewayne Bowe has struggled most the year until last week where he posted six receptions for 108 yards and 2 scores against an equally weak Houston Texans secondary. Look for Bowe to follow up on his breakout performance and possibly play up to preseason expectations for the rest of the way. TE Tony Moeaki is having a solid rookie year showing signs of being a good TE for years to come. He is well balanced as a blocker and play-maker. The only thing holding him back from better production is the number of options the Chiefs have with Bowe, McCluster, Chambers, and Jamal Charles. The weakness at the safety position for the Jags and the extra possessions could easily translate into a better than average and performance here, making him a sleeper top ten TE in a week where so many of the league’s top TEs are either on bye or hurt.

Running Game Thoughts: After six games it’s still tough to get a read on Todd Haley’s use of the RB duo of Thomas Jones and Jamal Charles. After a big week five, many speculated Charles was on his way to the lead role and fantasy greatness only to see a big dose of Jones week six. My hunch tells me Charles has a big first half to open up the game while the Chiefs try to keep their passing attack going. If or perhaps when they get a comfortable lead, then Jones could play the closing role in the second half power rushing attack. Both backs are good flex options and or midlevel RB2’s depending on the size of the league. I like Charles better in PPR scoring and Jones in antique standard scoring leagues.

Projections:
Matt Cassel: 250 yds/2 TDs/1 INT
Dwayne Bowe: 80 yds/1 TD
Chris Chambers: 50 yds
Tony Moeaki: 60 yds/1 TD
Jamaal Charles: 85 yds/35 rec
Thomas Jones: 50 yds/1 TD

Prediction: Chiefs 27 Jaguars 10 ^ Top

Cardinals @ Seahawks - (Eakin)

Passing Game Thoughts: Perhaps QB Max Hall will improve after a full bye week to gel with the offense. The undrafted rookie is older than most rookies and is a married man with a family. Because of this and his emotional maturity, he draws comparisons to Kurt Warner. That is jumping the gun by a long shot but it shows the Cards have a lot of confidence in him as a leader. His week four start came with mixed reviews. He will have the normal growing pains making the entire offense tough to trust until he begins he gets more established. It was a positive sign that star WR Larry Fitzgerald posted decent numbers and was targeted early and often by Hall. Steve Breaston may be back this week if practice goes well. He hasn’t had time with Hall as a QB so he is more risky than normal. The Seattle’s defense is 30th in pass defense and 2nd in rushing defense. Passing is the best way to attack them so Fitz should be ok, but he is the only player worth a start for any fantasy purposes.

Running Game Thoughts: The World still waits for Beanie Wells’ talent to meet up with Beanie Wells’ production. For four games it was injury and lack of opportunity. Week five saw him finally get opportunity with 20 carries but he disappointed with 34 yards. He has too much talent to be shutdown like that with any regularity but he will need some help from the passing game to open things up. Facing the stiff Seahawk run defense at home makes for a skeptical chance of breaking out. There are safer options this week but there is equal optimism in his future as a lead back with the skill set to be a star.

Projections:
Max Hall: 215 yds/1 TD
Larry Fitzgerald: 80 yds/1 TD
Steve Breaston: 50 yds
Stephen Williams: 40 yds
Beanie Wells: 75 yds/1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: The Seahawks passing offense continues to transition with a new staff, players and now the trade of Deion Branch to New England. For now, Mike Williams is the lead outside WR and should see the most targets and catches. Starting opposite of him is speedy Deon Butler. Butler is deep route runner and most polished all around WR, which is somewhat limited by the skill set of Matt Hasselbeck, who makes his living with timing and accuracy. All Seattle passing players are good plays this week based on a good matchup versus the struggling Cardinals defense. Mike Williams should follow up last week’s career high 10 catch 100-plus yards with another good outing because the Seahawks should score and he remains the biggest red zone threat. He could easily post a couple TDs this week. At some point prized rookie Golden Tate will get more involved. He is the most dynamic WR they have in terms of making plays after the catch but is still developing his routes and reads.

Running Game Thoughts: This week should be Marshawn Lynch’s coming out party. He’s in his third week of learning the offense, his first home game, and the Cardinals run defense has been a major disappointment. He’s good for twenty carries and a score. Justin Forsett is a good change of pace back and receiving down specialist but his big game last week may be a bit of a mirage. Lynch will continue to grow as the season progresses and Forsett won’t scores on 30 yards third down draws every week. Lynch will get most the scores out of this backfield tandem and Forsett is probably droppable in most fantasy leagues unless he’s owned as a handcuff.

Projections:
Matt Hasselbeck: 235 yds/2 TD/1 INT
Mike Williams: 75 yds/1 TD
Deon Butler: 60 yds/1 TD
John Carlson: 35 yds
Marshawn Lynch: 105 yds/1 TD

Prediction: Seahawks 27 Cardinals 17 ^ Top

Raiders @ Broncos - (Eakin)

Passing Game Thoughts: The Raiders need QB Bruce Gradkowski back sooner than later. The offense ground to halt last week with Jason Campbell at the helm. Campbell went almost two quarters in the middle of the game without completing a pass and finished with a whopping 86 yards. His career as a starter seems all but over. Campbell is questionable this week with a knee problem which opens the door for Kyle Boller. The former Cal first rounder has been a disappointment in his own right, but he may be a better option than Campbell. Boller will need to get TE Zach Miller more involved in the offense. Miller suffered his lowest totals of the year with Campbell which can’t happen when he is their best passing weapon. On the outside Louis Murphy is the better option over Darrius Heyward-Bey. Murphy was starting to emerge until injuries to him and Gradkowski occurred. With Boller or Campbell under center and the tough match-up of Champ Bailey, this is not a good week to gamble on him making plays.

Running Game Thoughts: Darren McFadden is nearly recovered from a pulled hamstring and is questionable to make his return this week. Michael Bush played well as the feature back but struggled last week with Campbell under center. HC Tom Cable says this will be a split backfield once McFadden returns which is bad news all around in fantasy circles. McFadden was more productive as a featured back but has shown he may not be durable enough with a heavy workload. McFadden also has the problem of not being a good fit for the Raiders scheme which is more of a power run game. If Run DMC rolls then both backs are marginal flex plays at best in Denver despite the Denver defense missing some of its most reliable run stoppers. With the Oakland QB Situation they will struggle to sustain drives.

Projections:
Kyle Boller / Jason Campbell: 150 yds/1 Int
Darrius Heyward-Bey: 30 yds
Louis Murphy: 50 yds
Zach Miller: 60 yds
Michael Bush: 75 yds/1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: Kyle Orton had his poorest outing last week which was expected against a tough Jets defense. He should get right back on track this week facing an Oakland team that has good passing yardage allowed numbers but has given up two scores through the air on average. Orton does a great job spreading the ball around to many targets which will help neutralize the Nnamdi effect. Slot WR Donald Royal is questionable. If he can’t go then Gaffney may move into the slot with Demeryius Thomas starting outside. Thomas has shown the ability to post big numbers when called on, and he is healthy again after being slowed for a couple weeks. If Royal sits he is a nice sleeper option. In the slot Gaffney is very capable of hauling in 5-10 passes on the Raiders safeties and Nickel CB Chris Johnson. Brandon Lloyd leads the league in receiving yards and has been one of the season’s biggest surprises. He makes his living as the deep threat and should really benefit from the return of a rushing threat in Knowshon Moreno.

Running Game Thoughts: Knowshon Moreno is back as the lead back with little threat for Lawrence Maroney and Correll Buckhalter taking snaps thanks to their poor showing in his absence. The Raiders allow 150 yards to opposing rushing attacks making them a great opponent for Moreno to get back on track. There is still some risk here though. They are a pass first offense so carries can be limited. If the game is in hand they may not choose to push him back in the mix too fast. I still like his chances to score and catch balls out of the backfield. He is not as dynamic LeSean McCoy but he could be valuable in a similar manner as one of the few backs that plays all three downs and gets goal line work.

Projections:
Kyle Orton: 300 yds/2 TD/1 Int
Brandon Lloyd: 70 yds/1 TD
Jabar Gaffney: 65 yds
Demaryius Thomas: 70 yds/1 TD
Knowshon Moreno: 80 yds/35 rec/1 TD

Prediction: Broncos 27 Raiders 10 ^ Top

Patriots @ Chargers - (Eakin)

Passing Game Thoughts: We had our first view of the Patriots post Moss era last week as the Patriots were able to beat many experts AFC favorite Baltimore Ravens. Newly acquired Deion Branch came up big with 98 yards and a score. Branch looks like a great value moving forward but this is still an offense that changes on a weekly basis more than most. I like TE Aaron Hernandez to lead the Patriots receiving core this week. The Chargers LB tandem of Sean Phillips and Larry English are built to rush the passer and provide run support. They are not good at covering TEs. The Chargers have not been one of the best defenses for TEs to exploit in recent years. Hernandez runs routes like a WR and is the Patriots leading receiver. Expect him to be featured this week and have a field day. The Chargers CBs are above average in pass coverage. They won’t shut a Brady led pass offense down by any means but they are will match up well with Branch and Welker. Along with Hernandez, this is a game that Danny Woodhead could also put up above average numbers. The Pats can split Hernandez out into four wide sets and isolate Woodhead on the Chargers LBS. Woodhead will be too quick for them to cover underneath.

Running Game Thoughts: Benjarvis Green-Ellis should start with Fred Taylor still recovering from injury. The Chargers are better than most against the run. He has ability but with Woodhead taking snaps this won’t be a big day for him unless the Patriots get a big lead or he gets a few scored from in close. There is a much better chance that this game becomes a pass heavy shootout featuring two of the league’s premier pass attacks.

Projections:
Tom Brady: 315 yds/3 TDs/1 Int
Deion Branch: 80 yds
Wes Welker: 70 yds/1 TD
Aaron Hernandez: 100 yds/1 TD
Danny Woodhead: 25 yds/55 rec
Benjarvis Green-Ellis: 50 yds

Passing Game Thoughts: Philip Rivers has his work cut out for him entering a potential shootout with Tom Brady potentially missing his two best targets. TE Antonio Gates is still listed as questionable with a toe injury but has not practiced this week. There’s a reasonable chance the Chargers don’t think he can go but want the Patriots to have to game plan for him. If he does play he may be limited. Top WR Malcom Floyd pulled a hamstring last week and is doubtful. Former Cowboy Patrick Crayton played did well filling in last week scoring and going over 100 yards. Crayton should be solid against a young New England secondary that is the best area to attack. Don’t discount the big play ability of Buster Davis. The former first rounder dropped a couple big chances but will get the chance to redeem himself with so many starters out. They both could have big days. Any starting WR in a Phillip Rivers led offense has the potential for posting numbers.

Running Game Thoughts: Prized rookie Ryan Mathews should have had his long awaited breakout last week if it were not for the Chargers falling behind the Rams by three scores early on. Bowling Ball Mike Tolbert saw just three carries to Mathews’ sixteen. He looks to be relegated to a Willis McGahee like goal line role for now. This is a tough week to predict Mathew’s value. He is a safe start and should see around twenty touches but the Patriots have been tough to run on. They allow just less than 50 yards per game to opposing RBs. It will be interesting to see if the Chargers rely on the run more with the shallow receiving core. Most likely they come out throwing to see if they have success on the suspect secondary. If not they could lean on Mathews since he has been successful in limited work averaging over five yards per carry.

Projections:
Philip Rivers: 275 yds/2 TD/1 INT
Buster Davis: 75 yds/1 TD
Patrick Crayton: 85 yds/1 TD
Antonio Gates: 55 yds
Ryan Mathews: 80 yds/20 rec

Prediction: Chargers 27 Patriots 24 ^ Top

Browns @ Saints - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: Perhaps there has been too much criticism of rookie quarterback Colt McCoy. After being drafted in the third round and struggling during training camp and the preseason, there were rumors that he might not even make the team. But after injuries to Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace, McCoy was given his first NFL start in Week 6. Unfortunately for him, that start came against the top defense in the league, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Though he threw two interceptions, McCoy actually looked a lot better than most people expected him to—he had over 300 yards of total offense and threw a touchdown despite being without his top two targets, Mohamed Massaquoi and Josh Cribbs, for the majority of the game. Well done, kid.

Though the Saints defense is more susceptible to the pass than the Steelers, this is still a tough matchup for a rookie quarterback making his second start. The Saints have allowed multiple touchdowns only one time this season and are known for their ability to force turnovers. McCoy is expected to be without Massaquoi and Cribbs this week, meaning he’ll be relying on the likes of Benjamin Watson, Chansi Stuckey, and Brian Robiskie. He did well last week with those options, but let’s not get carried away—McCoy I still pretty far away from being fantasy relevant.

Running Game Thoughts: Held out of the end zone for the first time in 2010, Browns running back Peyton Hillis suffered his first sub–double-digit fantasy game of the season against a very good Steelers defense. With 90 yards on 18 touches, though, Hillis didn’t cost many people their fantasy games. It’s shocking to think that a guy who was listed as the third running back on the Browns’ roster going into the season is now considered pretty much an every-week must-start in fantasy leagues.

Instead of facing one of the best defenses in the league this week, Hillis gets a New Orleans Saints defense which currently ranks 24th against opposing running backs and is allowing an average of over 100 yards per game on the ground. Hillis has missed some practice time this week, but he did last week as well and was still able to go. Make sure to check the injury reports on Sunday morning, but if he’s able to go, he should be in most lineups.

Projections:
Colt McCoy – 170 yards passing / 1 TD / 2 INT / 15 yards rushing
Peyton Hillis – 80 yards rushing / 1 TD / 30 yards receiving
Chansi Stuckey – 40 yards receiving / 0 TD
Brian Robiskie – 30 yards receiving / 0 TD
Ben Watson – 45 yards receiving / 1 TD
Evan Moore – 20 yards receiving / 0 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: It has been surprisingly more difficult than many expected for Drew Brees this season, but he is coming off his second 20-plus point fantasy game and his fourth multiple-touchdown game of the year. However, with six interceptions in his last four games, Brees hasn’t been quite as consistent as he usually is.

Still, Brees could very well be on his way to his third 20-plus point game, as the Browns haven’t been very good at stopping opposing quarterbacks this season. Having allowed a three touchdown performance to Ben Roethlisberger in his first game back in 2010, the Browns pass defense could be in for a very tough day against one of the best fantasy quarterbacks in the league.

Running Game Thoughts: Who is Chris Ivory and where did he come from? What a performance he had in a dominating Saints win over Tampa Bay in Week 6. Though he didn’t score a touchdown and hasn’t yet this season, Ivory’s 158 yards rushing have to make him the team’s new “starter”—as long as Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush are out, that is.

What sounds like an easy matchup against the Browns may actually be more difficult than expected for the combination of Chris Ivory, Julius Jones, and Ladell Betts. Ranked 8th in the league in points allowed to opposing running backs, the Browns have allowed just one rushing touchdown this season. Though Ivory is the guy to play if you’re in need, this probably isn’t the best time to take a chance on him.

Projections:
Drew Brees – 260 yards passing / 3 TD / 1 INT
Chris Ivory – 60 yards rushing / 0 TD
Julius Jones – 40 yards rushing / 0 TD
Ladell Betts – 30 yards rushing / 0 TD / 15 yards receiving
Marques Colston – 45 yards receiving / 1 TD
Robert Meachem – 60 yards receiving / 1 TD
Lance Moore – 80 yards receiving / 0 TD
Jeremy Shockey – 25 yards receiving / 1 TD

Prediction: Browns 17, Saints 27 ^ Top

49ers @ Panthers - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: With five touchdown passes in his last two games, 49ers quarterback Alex Smith may have finally gotten the message that it’s time for him to step up if he wants to keep his job. The 49ers got their first win of the season in Week 6 when they defeated the Oakland Raiders and, although he completed less than 50% of his passes, Smith has finally started to get the ball to Michael Crabtree—and that’s probably the best way for him to avoid hearing the crowd chant for David Carr.

Crabtree and tight end Vernon Davis have combined for five touchdowns in the past three games, but they face a defense that ranks in the top 5 in points allowed to both wide receivers and tight ends. Then again, those numbers are pretty heavily skewed after the ridiculous game they had against Todd Collins and the Chicago Bears in Week 5. Expect the 49ers to have decent success passing the ball, but they will likely still lean on the running game to move them down the field.

Running Game Thoughts: Perhaps the most consistent running back in the league this season, the 49ers’ Frank Gore has absolutely dominated opposing defenses thus far. He’s coming off a 149-yard performance against the Raiders in Week 6, and the 49ers may finally be using their stud running back the way they should—getting him the rock at least 25 times per game.

If Gore touches the ball 25 or more times against the Panthers, expect more dominance to come. Carolina ranks 26th in the league in points allowed to opposing running backs, and they allowed over 200 rushing yards to the Bears in their last game in Week 5. The Panthers will need to stack the box if they hope to have even a chance of shutting down Frank Gore. Expect big things this week from number 21.

Projections:
Alex Smith – 170 yards passing / 2 TD / 2 INT
Frank Gore – 135 yards rushing / 1 TD / 30 yards receiving
Michael Crabtree – 60 yards receiving / 1 TD
Vernon Davis / 50 yards receiving / 1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: Matt Moore was bad, so they bench him. Jimmy Clausen was bad, so they bench him, too—for Matt Moore? This is just an awful situation and absolutely no one in this offense benefits from how bad this passing game has been. The only person who might rather see Moore at quarterback as opposed to Clausen would be wide receiver Steve Smith, who seems to have some sort of bond with Moore, having scored in both games Moore started earlier this season. But even so, Smith is coming off of an injury and can’t be considered a fantasy stud again until we see some sort of production from this offense.

To make matters worse, the Panthers will be facing a 49ers defense that allowed just 83 yards passing to the Raiders in Week 6—while intercepting two passes and forcing a fumble. Stay away from this passing game if at all possible.

Running Game Thoughts: The last time we saw the Panthers in Week 5, it was another game, another disappointing fantasy performance for what was perceived by many to be the best running back duo in the league. Having scored a total of just three touchdowns combined and with neither running back cracking the 100-yard rushing mark this season, the duo of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart has to be considered one of the most disappointing fantasy situations in 2010.

Steve Smith being back in the lineup should help give the running game more room, but the 49ers have also been pretty stingy with keeping opposing running backs out of the end zone, having allowed just three rushing touchdowns so far this season. The Panthers offense is so bad that not even formerly elite fantasy players like DeAngelo Williams are must-starts anymore.

Projections:
Matt Moore – 155 yards passing / 1 TD / 1 INT / 25 yards rushing
DeAngelo Williams – 85 yards rushing / 0 TD / 10 yards receiving / 1 TD
Jonathan Stewart – 35 yards rushing / 0 TD / 10 yards receiving
Steve Smith – 55 yards receiving / 0 TD

Prediction: San Francisco 24, Carolina 13 ^ Top

Rams @ Buccaneers - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: With his first professional game where he didn’t throw an interception, Sam Bradford led the Rams to their third win of the season, this time over a Chargers team that many experts expected to blow them out. It wasn’t a pretty victory, but Bradford did an excellent job controlling the pace of the game.

Bradford does have a chance to produce some fantasy numbers this week against a Buccaneers pass defense that has allowed multiple passing touchdowns in three straight games. Unfortunately for him, they have also been excellent at forcing turnovers, having already intercepted 10 passes in five games this season. Bradford is certainly not immune to throwing picks, so this could be an interesting test for the rookie quarterback.

Running Game Thoughts: The best place to attack the Buccaneers is on the ground. This is a team that has allowed over 115 yards rushing in each of their last four games, including 210 yards to the Saints, who were without Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush. This is an easy must-start for running back Steven Jackson, who has rushed for over 100 yards in two straight games and has produced double-digit points in five straight games—points that have come mostly against better defenses than Tampa Bay’s. Jackson is in the conversation as the league’s best overall running back, so benching him against such a terrible defense is a recipe for frustration—get him in your lineup this week if you have him.

Projections:
Sam Bradford – 180 yards passing / 1 TD / 2 INT
Steven Jackson – 140 yards rushing / 1 TD / 20 yards receiving
Danario Alexander – 45 yards rushing / 1 TD
Danny Amendola – 55 yards receiving / 0 TD
Brandon Gibson – 30 yards receiving / 0 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: He hasn’t been very flashy, but second-year quarterback Josh Freeman has been fairly consistent this season with 12-16 points per week. He has thrown just three interceptions to six touchdowns, so avoiding negative points has been one of the biggest ways Freeman has helped his fantasy owners, despite not setting the world on fire with his offensive statistics. Freeman’s favorite target, rookie wide receiver Mike Williams, seems to be on the verge of breaking out and is definitely in contention for rookie of the year. The only problems is that opposing defenses seem to know this, and Williams is getting a lot more attention from defenses than most rookies do.

The Rams shocked many experts when they held Philip Rivers to just 11 fantasy points in their Week 6 win over his Chargers. St. Louis has now held opposing quarterbacks to one or no touchdown passes in five of their first six games this season. Expect that trend to continue this week, as the Buccaneers passing offense isn’t very explosive.

Running Game Thoughts: No thanks. The Buccaneers running game just can’t be trusted. Cadillac has now been held to less than 35 yards rushing in each of his past three games and has not scored a single touchdown this season. The best back in this offense has actually been Earnest Graham, who didn’t touch the ball in Week 6 after aggravating a hamstring injury. Graham is expected to be back this week, but the lack of carries he receives makes him a very tough play. Don’t expect anyone in this running game to be much of a fantasy factor in 2010, even when they go up against average defenses like St. Louis.

Projections:
Josh Freeman – 225 yards passing / 1 TD / 0 INT / 15 yards rushing
Cadillac Williams – 35 yards rushing / 0 TD / 30 yards receiving
Earnest Graham – 25 yards rushing / 0 TD / 20 yards receiving
Mike Williams – 70 yards receiving / 1 TD
Kellen Winslow – 50 yards receiving / 0 TD

Prediction: St. Louis 14, Tampa Bay 16 ^ Top

Eagles @ Titans - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: It’s a good problem to have when both of your quarterbacks have been excellent. Andy Reid’s duo of Kevin Kolb and Mike Vick has led his team to a 4-2 record and a share of the lead in the NFC East. Kolb is coming off of a 326 yard, three touchdown performance in a Week 6 win over Atlanta Falcons. Unfortunately, Kolb will be without his top receiver, DeSean Jackson, who suffered a concussion from a vicious hit in last Sunday’s game. Kolb, however, seemed to establish an excellent connection with Jeremy Maclin and even Jason Avant, who both tore up the Falcons secondary.

The Titans looked good in Week 6, forcing three combined interceptions by David Garrard and Trent Edwards in their dominating win. Then again, stopping the Jaguars passing game has to be considered a much easier task than stopping the high-powered Eagles aerial assault. Don’t look for a repeat performance from the Titans secondary this week, but also temper your expectations of Kolb.

Running Game Thoughts: Running back LeSean McCoy took a backseat (in terms of fantasy production) to Kolb and the passing game in Week 6, but don’t expect things to be so lopsided this week. McCoy has now touched the ball more than 20 times in four of his past five games, and he is second in the league in pass receptions by a running back. He has scored 13 or more fantasy points in four of his first six games this season, and his receptions make him especially valuable in PPR leagues.

The Titans have been very good at stopping opposing running backs, having allowed just one rushing touchdown on the year. One of the things that they have not been quite as good at, however, is defending those backs in the passing game. They have allowed nearly six receptions per game to opposing backs, which could bode well for McCoy and his receiving abilities.

Projections:
Kevin Kolb – 255 yards passing / 2 TD / 2 INT
LeSean McCoy – 65 yards rushing / 0 TD / 45 yards receiving / 1 TD
Jeremy Maclin – 80 yards receiving / 1 TD
Jason Avant – 60 yards receiving / 0 TD
Brent Celek – 50 yards receiving / 0 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: Listed as “questionable” on the injury report, Vince Young could leave the Titans without their regular starter. Young went down with a knee injury and was reportedly concerned that his season might be over after a fumbled snap turned into a pileup in the backfield during Monday night’s win over the Jaguars. If Young is unable to play, the Titans will turn to backup Kerry Collins, who was surprisingly effective in relief of Young during the Monday night game.

Whoever the quarterback is, though, this simply isn’t a good matchup for the Titans passing offense. The Eagles have held opposing quarterbacks to under 200 yards passing in half of their games this season, while forcing at least one interception in every contest. Whoever is under center will have a tough time, as the Eagles will do what they do best—bring pressure. And whether it’s a slowed-down Vince Young or the concrete-footed Kerry Collins, he could be taking quite a few hits. Receiver Kenny Britt has scored in four straight games, but he may have a tough time making it five this week.

Running Game Thoughts: If not for a long touchdown run late in Monday night’s blowout win, Chris Johnson would have had a very pedestrian game against a mediocre Jacksonville Jaguars run defense. Though we can’t discredit that run, it’s hard to completely trust him to do that every week. Johnson hasn’t been quite as productive in 2010 as expected by those who drafted him first overall, but he is third in the league in rushing yards per game and remains a valuable asset in the passing game.

The Eagles have done a great job shutting down Frank Gore and Michael Turner in back-to-back weeks, and they hope to make it three straight solid performances against top-tier running backs this week when they face Chris Johnson. If not for Jahvid Best completely destroying their defense with catches, Philadelphia would be ranked significantly higher than 22nd against opposing backs. Tennessee will certainly lean heavily on Chris Johnson, but that might not translate into as many fantasy points as you would normally expect from him.

Projections:
Kerry Collins – 165 yards passing / 1 TD / 2 INT
Chris Johnson – 105 yards rushing / 1 TD / 20 yards receiving / 0 TD
Kenny Britt – 45 yards receiving / 0 TD
Nate Washington – 40 yards receiving / 1 TD
Bo Scaife – 35 yards receiving / 0 TD

Prediction: Philadelphia 17, Tennessee 14 ^ Top

Bengals @ Falcons - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: It has been a very on-and-off season for Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer so far this season. He has struggled with his accuracy all year so far and it has cost him in the form of six interceptions through his first five games. Certainly the bye week was used to get his connection down with receivers Chad Ochocinco, Terrell Owens, and Jordan Shipley as well as tight end Jermaine Gresham, but time will tell whether Palmer’s accuracy issues will continue. Owens has outshined Ochocinco so far this season including 324 yards and two touchdowns over the previous two games prior to the bye week. Look for Palmer to continue to look his way, but certainly Ochocinco will begin to pout if the ball doesn’t start to go his way more.

After four out of five games in which the Falcons secondary forced more interceptions than they allowed touchdowns, they fell back into their 2009 slide last week when they allowed Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb to slice them apart for 3 touchdowns. If he’s on, expect a nice game from Carson Palmer an d the Bengals passing game as a whole—then again, there’s always the chance that going on the road to a hostile territory in Atlanta will turn to more interceptions than touchdowns.

Running Game Thoughts: We got our first glimpse of the Cedric Benson we all remembered from 2009 in the Bengals’ last game against the Buccaneers. Benson ran the ball 23 times for 144 yards and although he failed to get into the end zone, he certainly helped instill confidence in those of us who drafted him hoping that he would have back-to-back nice seasons. Benson had been mostly mediocre prior to the Week 5 contest, though, and had failed to crack 100 total yards yet on the year. Fortunately, he remains by far the most valuable player in this backfield and should see almost all of the carries going forward.

Unfortunately, those carries might not translate to much success this week against an Atlanta defense which has done a fairly good job of stopping opposing running backs. The Falcons are certainly more vulnerable to the passing game and it appears that the Bengals are very comfortable with passing many times, so don’t expect Benson to get 25+ touches again like he did in Week 5.

Projections:
Carson Palmer – 255 yards passing / 2 TD / 2 INT
Cedric Benson – 70 yards rushing / 1 TD / 10 yards receiving
Chad Ochocinco – 80 yards receiving / 1 TD
Terrell Owens – 65 yards receiving / 0 TD
Jordan Shipley – 30 yards receiving / 0 TD
Jermaine Gresham – 35 yards receiving / 1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: The only consistent thing on this team this season has been the play of wide receiver Roddy White. With double-digit fantasy points in five of the first six weeks, White is an every-week must start regardless of his opponent for every fantasy team. Quarterback Matt Ryan knows that the rest of the weapons in this offense are rather lackluster and he targets White by far the most of any player. White has made 5+ catches in every game this season and there’s no reason to believe that won’t continue.

The only other player in this passing game who has been of any fantasy value thus far has been tight end Tony Gonzalez, who only had 19 yards in Week 6, but made it count with two touchdown receptions. The Bengals have had a tough time shutting down worse tight ends this season, so don’t be surprised to see Gonzalez make it three touchdowns in two games. He may be getting up there in age, but Gonzalez simply knows where to be on the field.

Running Game Thoughts: What a frustrating situation it has been to be a Michael Turner owner. Considered to be one of the top backs going into the season and a first round pick in almost every league, Turner has scored just one touchdown this season and has been held to under 80 total yards and single-digit fantasy points in four of the Falcons’ first six games. While there is certainly something to be said about keeping him healthy and not force-feeding him the ball too much to start the season, this isn’t the beginning that Turner’s fantasy owners had hoped for.

The trend of fantasy mediocrity could definitely continue this week, however, as the Falcons face a Bengals defense that has allowed just three total touchdowns to opposing running backs in 2010. Turner definitely has the talent to breakthrough, but the lack of opportunities he has been given in the running game combined with his continued non-usage in the passing game don’t necessarily make him a must-start this week.

Projections:
Matt Ryan – 215 yards passing / 2 TD / 1 INT
Michael Turner – 80 yards rushing / 1 TD
Jason Snelling – 20 yards rushing / 0 TD / 10 yards receiving
Roddy White – 90 yards receiving / 1 TD
Michael Jenkins – 50 yards receiving / 0 TD
Tony Gonzalez – 35 yards receiving / 1 TD

Prediction: Bengals 24, Falcons 27